Term 4 was filled with many pastoral events across most year groups. It has been fantastic to see these take place in their full form, with so many unable to go ahead over the past two years, due to restrictions.
Year 7 2023 Orientation Day and Parent Information Evening
A wonderful fun filled day was experienced for the incoming Year cohort for 2023. Throughout the day the new students got a taste for College life in the Chapel, presented by Mr Ronchetti, Mr Rafferty and the new College Prefects. The House Coordinators raised the levels of house spirit through some small, sided games in the basketball courts with plenty of atmosphere. During the middle session of the day, the EMBARK team presented to the students an experience of what learning will be like in 2023. A BBQ lunch was enjoyed by all during lunch. The following evening the incoming Year 7 2023 were welcomed into the Br Warner Hall by Mr Rafferty and Mr Kilbourne to provide relevant information regarding the transition from primary to high school and the high standards we expect at St Dominic’s College. We are truly looking forward to welcoming Year 7 next year.
Year 12 College Formal
Year 12 concluded their final HSC exams early November and celebrated in style at the annual formal with staff and fellow peers. It was a wonderful night of glitz and glamour with many students all dressed up with their partners and friends. Dockside, Darling Harbour was the scenic location, and everyone had a tremendous evening. Outstanding food and plenty of opportunity to show some move on the dance floor. Thank you, Mr Kilbourne and Ms Baluch, for their organisation of the successful event.
Year 10 Pastoral Activities and Transition Program
A challenging end for Year 10 with so many changes beyond our control, a modified pastoral activities and transition program went ahead. This included Urban Challenge, which the cohort missed out on due to COVID restrictions. A fantastic day exploring the city and all its splendour. An experience navigating and enjoying the sights, sounds and tastes that our beautiful city has to offer. The students also got to experience a fun day at Luna Park. Perfect weather and endless energy provided plenty of happy faces throughout the day. Truly, a day to remember. The students were fantastic in their use and cooperation on public transport through both events. The transition program then focused more towards peer support 2023 and subject based support in preparation for Year 11, 2023. A big thanks to Mr McKay and Ms Tahan for their organisation and planning of these important opportunities.
RUOK? Day and Movember Finale
The College gathered to acknowledge R U Ok? Day and to signal the end of our Movember campaign. R U Ok? Day and Movember are significant Pastoral events on our College Calendar, raising awareness and starting conversations around mental health and men’s health.
Students were reminded that every day is the day to ask, ‘are you OK?’ and start a meaningful conversation whenever they spot the signs that someone, they care about might be struggling with life. We commenced the day with an Assembly to celebrate the month of Movember’s initiatives and funds raised. Over $6000 was raised over the course of the month. Thank you for everyone’s support.
The day continued with a number of activities, including:
- RUOK? Sessions
- RUOK? Mural Painting
- Guest Speaker – Flight Sergeant Nathan King – Invictus Games Silver Medallist
- Inflatable Fun on the College Ovals
- BBQ Lunch
- Staff vs Students Dodgeball Extravaganza
The College would like to thank Tench House Coordinator Mr Hall and his Tenchmen, who ensured that students and staff enjoyed a day that focussed on wellbeing, mental health and most importantly, the message that we are part of a caring and supportive community.
Thank you Pastoral Team
2022 was another successful year but it couldn’t be possible without the continued dedication and care of the pastoral and house team. Nurturing adolescents through tough times is never easy and many difficult decisions are hard to digest at times. But always the best interest of the students and families are at heart within the values of the Edmund Rice. Thank you to all the pastoral coordinators, house coordinators, wellbeing coordinator and counsellors of St Dominic’s College. Your tireless commitment to pastoral care and the wellbeing of our students is valued by all.
Mr Brendan Jansz
Director of Pastoral Care
